There are impressive games that win awards and leave a mark on the gaming industry. However, not all of them are free to play.
So, what are some of the best free games you can play on Linux? Maybe you want to kill some time, or maybe you want to experience a good story game? There’s something for everyone.
Here, I list 30+ best Linux games you do not need to purchase.
It’s an excellent website that offers massive deals on games and books. The best part is that part of the sale goes to various open-source projects and charities. You can visit their store to check the ongoing offers. If you can spend money, you can also subscribe to their monthly plan to get premium games for free and additional discounts.
Now that you are aware of the awesome Humble Bundle, let’s have a look at the free Linux games.
1. Dota 2
Dota 2 is one of the most popular MOBA games available for Linux. If you like multiplayer strategy games, this should be the one you should have installed. Dota 2 is also one of the best competitive eSport opportunities for aspiring gamers.
The game is free to play; however, it offers a battle pass, giving you extra perks and rewards. The microtransactions and the battle pass are optional.
2. Team Fortress 2
Team Fortress 2 is one of the oldest multiplayer shooter games available for Linux. Even though the game was released in 2007, it still has a decent player base, making it one of the top 10 steam games at time of updating this article.
The game receives regular content updates. It features many game mods and lets you customize and create your character with hundreds of weapons. In case you were wondering, it isn’t a pay-to-win scheme – it’s just plain cosmetic items that should add a personal touch to your character.
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3. War Thunder
War Thunder is an engaging World War II simulation game. It is a cross-platform MMO game that deals with aviation, armored vehicles, and naval craft from World War II and the Cold War.
It’s an entirely different take on WWII and the Cold War, focusing on various combat vehicles used. Yes, it might just be a simple simulation game with multiplayer action, but boasts excellent graphics details in the game.
4. WAKFU
WAKFU is a grid-based MMORPG game that every anime fan would love to have installed. It is a fascinating free-to-play online strategy RPG game that has humor baked into it. The game features 18 different classes to choose from, and whatever role you pick, everything depends on it.
I would want you to try this out, I loved it.
5. Fishing Planet
Fishing Plant (as the name suggests) is an online first-person multiplayer fishing simulator. It’s not for everyone, but if you are a fisher or maybe you just want to experience fishing (virtually) – this can be fun.
It is a basic simulation game with pleasant graphics and details to provide a good first-person experience. The game is free but it does offer some paid DLCs.
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6. Star Conflict
This is probably one of the best picks for Linux users if you want an action-driven space simulation game. Star Conflict is a massively multiplayer game that includes both PVP and PVE.
You just need to survive in outer space and decide the best strategy to engage the enemies. It is an interesting game.
7. Robocraft
Want to have a fully customizable battle robot? Maybe, the Transformers? Well, Robocraft is something similar. It lets you set up your robot battle vehicles that can drive, hover, walk or fly—as per your preferences. Several futuristic weapons to choose from—that’ll make the battle even more enjoyable.
8. AdVenture Capitalist
Thought about becoming a capitalist? Well, there’s no better capitalism simulator (sounds funny!) than this for your Linux machine. Invest, prosper, and attract Angel investors to give your business a boost. Hire a manager and keep your business stable while you’re gone!
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9. BRAIN / OUT
Brain / Out is a 2D multiplayer shooter with a post-soviet setting. I don’t try 2D games, but this one was fun. You can also customize your loadout and progress through the game to utilize every type of powerful weaponry to defeat your enemies.
Undoubtedly, one of the best free Linux games available on Steam.
However, it no longer receives any content updates. So, if you want to try it for nostalgia, go ahead!
10. Wild West Saga: Idle Tycoon
The game revolves around the Wild West, where you can become a billion-dollar pioneer by starting several businesses and exploring more business opportunities. The more patent cards you collect, the more it will help your business with new towns and upgrades.
11. No More Room in Hell
If you are a gamer who loves action-packed games, you will surely love zombie shooter games. No More Room in Hell is one such first-person co-op zombie shooter game that is entirely free to play on Steam.
It is no ordinary FPS game, but it also has a touch of horror (like the classic Left 4 Dead—which isn’t available for Linux)
12. Awesomenauts
A side-scrolling hero-based 2D MOBA game is damn impressive. It is one of the best free Linux games that we recommend you try, even if you have never tried 2D games. You can join your friends as an online party, or you could enjoy it on a local split screen as well.
I must say, this game is superbly good—if you’re into 2D action-packed games.
13. Dead Maze
Yet another 2D game, but with zombies in it. You need to craft life-saving supplies, collect food, monitor health, and scavenge for resources to survive the zombie apocalypse. It is a multiplayer game where you have to cooperate and join other players to survive the apocalypse.
14. The King’s Request: Physiology and Anatomy Revision Game
A dead simple 2D short adventure game that tests your knowledge of the human body and concepts from science, biology, physiology, anatomy, medicine, Biomed, nursing, pharmacy, health, or exercise science.
Each correct answer leads you to victory and saves the kingdom. And there are no negative points if you get an answer wrong.
Of course, this isn’t a great game to talk about—but this game is an example of gamifying learning content—so why not give it a try?
15. Cognizer
A unique puzzle game that challenges your brain with symbols and colors. You can either set a time limit or remove it to make things easier.
16. Faeria
It is an exciting card game where you must defeat your opponent in epic battles. You can enjoy the game solo or join a casual/competitive multiplayer match. Faeria does nothing like any other card game, making it one of the unique free Linux games I recommend.
17. Tank Force
Tank Force would be a good addition to your Steam library if you are searching for an online tank shooter game. It features plenty of different tanks you need to unlock as you level up. Join the players from all over the world to fight for dominance.
Tank Force supports cross-platform PvP battles (10v10) with various battle modes and combat arenas.
18. Toribash
Toribash is a unique online turn-based fighting game. Here, you can design your moves. You get complete control over your character’s body, with hundreds of potential game mods available.
If you were looking for something original and unique – Toribash is the one.
19. Forge of Gods
Forge of Gods is a multiplayer card strategy game where you need to collect and train as many monsters as you can and then assemble them to attack!
You even get the ability to mix different types of creatures to breed legendary warriors. In addition, it also features boss battles!
20. World of Guns: Gun Disassembly
Yet another interesting game which lets you explore a wide range of firearms – that includes disassembling/assembling them.
There’s nothing more to talk about it—but it’s enjoyable.
21. The Pirate: Caribbean Hunt
Sail through epic battles and raids to become the undisputed captain! The Caribbean is full of opportunities, you just have to find them!
In other words, be the jack sparrow! (maybe that’s too much to ask for here).
22. Xonotic
Xonotic is a fast-paced arena shooter. You will probably like it if you’re missing out games like Quake Champions on Linux. It features a pretty impressive set of weapons—that will decide your fate in the arena.
Indeed, one of the best free Linux games that do not require Steam.
23. The Battle for Wesnoth
The Battle for Wesnoth is an open-source, free turn-based strategy game. You can opt to play it solo or consider joining the multiplayer sessions. You’ve got to defend your kingdom. In either case, you can even choose to pursue the unseen evil by heading down to an adventurous path.
24. CAYNE
It is a point-n-click horror adventure game, and it’s free to download via GOG.com. It offers optional extra content for a certain price—but you won’t really be needing that unless you greatly enjoy this game.
25. 0 A.D
0 A.D. is a free, open-source real-time strategy game that deals with ancient warfare. A group of independent game developers regularly release newer Alpha versions of the game (currently with the 23rd). You can even download mods from within the game to enhance your gameplay.
26. Urban Terror
Urban Terror is a free multiplayer FPS game with a decent number of active players (it depends on your location). It is somewhat relatable to Counterstrike 1.6 but it’s fun if you have friends to play with.
27. Secret Maryo Chronicles
Want a free Super Mario rip-off that’s unique in its own ways? Well, we’ve got you this.
Maryo Chronicles is one of the most amazing 2D side sidescroller games. It is not being actively maintained, but you could give it a try.
28. Assault Cube
Yet another something like the classic Counterstrike 1.6.
Assault Cube is a pretty good multiplayer FPS game if you have enough players in the servers. It’s not entirely the best multiplayer FPS, but it is still a satisfying retro experience.
29. Super Tux Kart
If you are a fan of Kart racing games like the Beach Buggy Blitz for the mobile platform or Mario Kart for Nintendo – you will definitely like this game. It’s super simple, with optimized controls to handle your kart and enjoy the race!
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30. Warsow
Warsow is a well-thought FPS game. It is unique and interesting.
They also offer a discord server which you join and find other players to play with.
31. Hedgewars
It is a funny turn-based strategy game featuring pink hedgehogs. It’s a package of comedy, action, strategy, and artillery—as a whole.
What’s your favorite Linux game?
Now that you’ve known most of the popular free Linux games, which one would you prefer to get started with?
💭 Also, did we miss any of your favorite Linux game that is available for free and deserves to be one of the best out there? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
